PECSAA Tournament
Each February, St. Leo Catholic School proudly competes in the PECSAA Basketball Tournament, the culminating event of the basketball season for schools in the Piedmont Elementary Catholic Schools Athletic Association (PECSAA). This exciting tournament brings together student-athletes from seven Catholic K–8 schools in the Triad area of central North Carolina:
- Blessed Sacrament (BSS)
- Immaculate Heart of Mary (IHM)
- Our Lady of Grace (OLG)
- Our Lady of Mercy (OLM)
- Sacred Heart (SH)
- St. Leo (SLS)
- St. Pius X (SPX)
The tournament showcases the talent, teamwork, and sportsmanship of PECSAA student-athletes and offers a spirited environment for school communities to gather in support of their teams. The championship game is a highlight of the season and is held at Bishop McGuinness Catholic High School, offering students a special opportunity to play on a high school court and experience a tournament atmosphere.
The PECSAA Tournament is not only a competition—it’s a celebration of Catholic school athletics, community, and character development through sports.
Shamrock Tournament
St. Leo Catholic School proudly participates in the esteemed Shamrock Basketball Tournament, a hallmark event in Catholic middle-school athletics since its inception in 1962 at St. Patrick School in Charlotte. This annual, three-day tournament (with a brief pause during the pandemic) brings together seventh- and eighth-grade boys and girls teams from across North Carolina and nearby states, including South Carolina, Virginia, and Georgia.
The tournament offers more than competitive play as it’s a true rite of passage for our student athletes. Teams enjoy spirited games, shared accommodations, tournament Masses, and cheerleading competitions. It fosters camaraderie, faith, and sportsmanship in a lively, supportive atmosphere .
Why we value this experience:
- Community & faith: The week begins with a team Mass and includes prayer and fellowship throughout the event.
- Skill & growth: Students challenge themselves on the court while growing in character and teamwork.
- Lasting memories: From nail-biting buzzer-beaters to bonding in hotel settings, the tournament leaves a lasting impression—becoming a treasured school tradition.
St. Leo’s participation in the Shamrock Tournament underscores our dedication to holistic education—nurturing student-athletes in mind, body, and spirit. We look forward to this tradition continuing to unite our students in faith, friendship, and friendly competition.